Thomas Jefferson envisioned Washington to be “an American Paris” with light and airy streets and low and convenient buildings.

To help fulfill this vision, Congress passed the Height of Buildings Act in 1889 which originally limited the height of any type of building to 110 feet. Years later, Congress changed that restriction to 130 feet.

Consequently, there are no skyscrapers in our nation’s Capitol. Instead, this is a low and sprawling city where the Washington Monument is like a beacon, always present and visible from across the city. At 555 feet, its simple design and marble construction draw the eye and provide food for thought about how George Washington’s legacy continues to be felt across the city and nation today.

The cornerstone for this Egyptian obelisk was laid on July 4, 1848 and it was the world’s tallest building when it was completed in 1884. The monument was officially dedicated the day before Washington’s Birthday in 1885. Progress was slowed by financial difficulties and by the Civl War. In fact, the original design called for it to be 45 feet taller and to be ringed by thirty 100 foot tall obelisks. This ambitious design was scaled back to cut costs.

It seems we’ve always battled the budget.

We walked by but didn’t go inside. You can only get your timed tickets the day prior to your visit by reserving them online. All the same, it’s impressive from the ground both up close and from afar. Want to learn the complete history of the Washington Monument or find out how to reserve your ticket to the top? Click here and get the facts at the NPS page.

Tomorrow I’ll tell you about another Washington Monument that we visited this trip.